Bab Bou Jeloud, the blue-tiled gate into the Fes medina, with minarets framed in its arch

Travel style and culture

What to Wear in Morocco: The Complete Dress Code Guide

Season by season and city by city: how to dress comfortably and respectfully in Morocco, for men and women, with packing lists and the cultural context.

Photograph: Timothy A. Gonsalves, CC BY-SA 4.0

Medinas
Cover shoulders and knees
Mosques
Hassan II only; full cover
Beach towns
Swimwear on the sand
Pack first
A scarf, from 30 MAD

What Should You Wear in Morocco?

Dress modestly but comfortably. In the medinas of Fes and Marrakech, women should cover shoulders and knees with loose trousers, skirts or tunics, and men should wear long trousers and sleeved shirts. Casablanca, Rabat and beach towns are relaxed, while mosques require strict modest dress. Pack light, breathable layers.

What you pack depends on where you go, the season and what you plan to do. People in Casablanca wear international fashion; in mountain villages traditional dress is the norm.

Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, more relaxed than many in the region. Covering up in traditional areas gets you less unwanted attention and helps you blend in.

Below: clothes by season, by place (city, medina, beach, desert, mountains), by activity, what not to wear, capsule packing lists, and where to buy clothes locally.

Modesty Scale by Location

What is expected where, from the most relaxed places to the strictest.

LocationDress code level
Tourist beaches (Agadir, Essaouira)Very relaxed
Modern cities (Casablanca, Rabat)Relaxed
Marrakech new town (Gueliz)Moderate
Medinas (Fes, Marrakech old town)Moderate-Conservative
Mountain villages (Atlas, Rif)Conservative
Rural south (Ouarzazate, Zagora)Conservative
Mosques (Hassan II)Strict modest dress required

Cultural Context: Modesty in Morocco

Why covering up matters, and where it matters less.

Shoppers in djellabas, jeans and shorts walking through the covered Souk Semmarine in Marrakech
Souk Semmarine, Marrakech: djellabas, jeans and shorts in the same street. Photograph: DimiTalen, CC0

Morocco's Dress Culture Is Diverse

In Casablanca, young Moroccan women wear jeans, crop tops and modern fashion. In Fes medina, djellabas are the norm. On the beach in Agadir you will see bikinis. In the Atlas Mountains, Berber women wear colorful layered dresses. Match your clothes to the place you are in.

Modesty Is About Respect, Not Rules

You will not be arrested for wearing shorts. Dressing modestly in traditional areas is a courtesy, like dressing up for a church visit or a formal dinner, and people tend to respond to it.

Practical Benefits of Covering Up

The sun is strong year-round. In hard heat, loose long clothing keeps you cooler than shorts and a tank top: it blocks direct sun and lets air move. Long sleeves also keep off evening mosquitoes and desert sand.

For Women Specifically

Women get less unwanted attention in traditional areas when dressed modestly. Harassment is never the wearer's fault; this is a practical point many female travelers report. A loose tunic over trousers or a maxi dress works well in the medina. Beyond that, dress for your own comfort.

What to Wear by Season

What to pack for each time of year, from summer heat to cold desert nights.

Summer (June - August)

30-45 C in most areas

Moroccan summers are intensely hot, especially inland. The coast is milder but still warm. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential. Loose-fitting clothing keeps you cooler than tight clothes.

For women

  • Loose linen or cotton trousers and wide-leg pants
  • Midi and maxi skirts in breathable fabrics
  • Loose-fitting tunics and long blouses that cover shoulders
  • Light cotton or linen maxi dresses
  • Lightweight cardigan or kimono for air-conditioned interiors
  • Wide-brimmed sun hat for UV protection
  • Scarf for mosque visits and sun protection

For men

  • Lightweight linen or cotton trousers (avoid jeans in the heat)
  • Short-sleeve collared shirts or breathable linen shirts
  • Knee-length shorts for beach towns and modern city areas
  • Lightweight cotton t-shirts in neutral tones
  • Sun hat or cap for desert and outdoor sightseeing
  • Breathable sneakers or quality leather sandals

Winter (December - February)

8-18 C, colder in mountains

Many visitors are surprised by how cold Morocco gets in winter. The Atlas Mountains receive snow, Fes and inland cities drop to near freezing at night, and even Marrakech can be chilly after sunset. Riads and traditional buildings often lack central heating.

For women

  • Warm layers: thermal base layer, sweater, and jacket
  • Warm trousers or jeans (denim is practical in winter)
  • Medium-weight coat or warm down jacket
  • Warm scarf, gloves, and beanie for mountain and evening wear
  • Closed-toe boots or warm ankle boots
  • Rain jacket or waterproof layer for the north and coast
  • Warm socks (riad floors can be cold marble or tile)

For men

  • Layered outfits: t-shirt, flannel or sweater, and jacket
  • Warm jeans or chinos
  • Warm jacket or coat (down jacket for the mountains)
  • Warm scarf and beanie for cold evenings
  • Closed-toe boots or sturdy warm shoes
  • Rain jacket for the northern cities (Tangier, Chefchaouen, Fes)
  • Warm socks and potentially thermals for mountain areas

Spring & Fall (March - May, September - November)

18-28 C, ideal for most

The best seasons to visit Morocco. Temperatures are pleasant, with warm days and cool evenings. Spring brings wildflowers in the mountains and countryside. Autumn has warm days with cooling temperatures toward November. Layering is the key strategy.

For women

  • Light layers: cotton tops with a light cardigan or jacket
  • Midi skirts and linen trousers
  • Light maxi dresses (add a layer for cool evenings)
  • A light denim or cotton jacket for evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes for medina exploration
  • A versatile scarf that doubles as shawl and head cover
  • One warm sweater for chilly evenings or mountain excursions

For men

  • Cotton chinos or lightweight trousers
  • Short and long-sleeve shirts (bring both)
  • Light jacket or hoodie for evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes or smart trainers
  • One warmer layer for mountain day trips
  • Sunglasses and cap for sunny days
  • Light rain layer for the north (especially March and November)

What to Wear by Location

An outfit that works on a Casablanca beach can feel wrong in the Fes medina. How to dress for each kind of place:

Modern Cities (Casablanca, Rabat)

Modesty: Relaxed

Casablanca and Rabat are cosmopolitan, Westernized cities. Moroccans here dress in international fashion: jeans, dresses, blazers, and everything in between. You can wear nearly anything you would wear in a European city. The Corniche beach area in Casablanca is particularly relaxed.

For women

  • Jeans, dresses, skirts of any length are acceptable
  • Sleeveless tops are common in summer
  • Modern fashion is the norm in malls and business districts
  • Beach areas: swimwear on the beach, cover up when leaving

For men

  • Jeans, chinos, t-shirts, polo shirts all fine
  • Shorts acceptable in casual settings and beaches
  • Smart casual for upscale restaurants and bars
  • Essentially the same as any Mediterranean city

Traditional Medinas (Fes, Marrakech old town)

Modesty: Moderate

The historic medinas are more conservative than modern city districts. While tourists are generally given a pass, dressing more modestly shows respect for the local culture and will also result in less unwanted attention. The narrow streets mean you are in close proximity to residents going about daily life.

For women

  • Cover shoulders and knees as a minimum
  • Loose-fitting trousers or skirts below the knee
  • Tunics, loose blouses, or t-shirts that cover the upper arms
  • Avoid low-cut tops, short skirts, and tight clothing

For men

  • Long trousers preferred over shorts
  • T-shirts or collared shirts with sleeves
  • Avoid going shirtless even in hot weather
  • Neat, clean clothing shows respect

Beach Towns (Essaouira, Agadir, Taghazout)

Modesty: Relaxed

Beach towns are the most relaxed places in Morocco for dress code. Essaouira has a bohemian surfer vibe, Agadir feels like a Mediterranean resort, and Taghazout is a laid-back surf village. On the beach itself, swimwear is standard. When walking through town, a cover-up is respectful.

For women

  • Bikinis and swimwear are fine on tourist beaches
  • Cover up with a sarong or dress when leaving the beach
  • Shorts, sundresses, and casual clothing in town
  • Essaouira gets windy: bring a light jacket or windbreaker

For men

  • Swim shorts on the beach, shorts in town are normal
  • T-shirts and casual wear throughout
  • Flip-flops or sandals are standard footwear
  • Board shorts double as casual wear in surf towns

Sahara Desert (Merzouga, Zagora)

Modesty: Practical first, modesty second

In the desert, dress for the conditions first. Days are very hot in summer and surprisingly cold at night year-round. Sand gets everywhere. Your guides and camp hosts are generally relaxed about clothing, but the sun is strong and covering up is practical.

For women

  • Loose, full-length trousers or harem pants
  • Long-sleeve breathable shirts to protect from sun and sand
  • A desert scarf (cheche) for wind and sand protection
  • Warm layers for cold desert nights (temperatures drop sharply)

For men

  • Loose full-length trousers (avoid shorts due to sun and sand)
  • Long-sleeve shirt or breathable base layer
  • Cheche (Saharan scarf/turban) for sand and sun protection
  • Warm fleece or jacket for camp nights

Atlas Mountains (Imlil, Toubkal, Dades)

Modesty: Moderate to conservative

Mountain villages are among the most conservative areas in Morocco. Berber communities maintain traditional values. Additionally, mountain weather demands proper hiking and layering gear. Even in summer, high-altitude areas can be cool, and winter brings genuine cold and snow.

For women

  • Long trousers for hiking and village visits (no shorts)
  • Layered tops: t-shirt plus fleece plus windbreaker
  • Proper hiking boots with ankle support
  • Head scarf for visiting rural villages (sign of respect)

For men

  • Long hiking trousers or convertible pants
  • Moisture-wicking layers for trekking
  • Warm fleece and waterproof jacket
  • Proper hiking boots (the terrain is rough)

What to Wear by Activity

From the medina and the hammam to a desert camp and a night out.

Sightseeing & Medina Exploration

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Medina streets are uneven cobblestone, often wet, and full of obstacles. Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip. Dress modestly in loose, breathable layers. Carry a small crossbody bag (not a backpack) to keep valuables close and move through narrow alleys easily.

Essentials: Closed-toe walking shoes, Loose comfortable clothes, Crossbody bag, Scarf for sun and mosques

Mosque Visits

Most mosques are closed to non-Muslims. The exception is Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, which offers guided tours. Women must cover their hair, arms, and legs completely. Men must wear long trousers and a sleeved shirt. Shoes are removed at the entrance. Bring a lightweight scarf and wear appropriate clothing if you plan to visit.

Essentials: Headscarf for women, Long sleeves and trousers, Socks (floors can be cold), Easy-to-remove shoes

Hammam & Spa

In a public hammam, women wear underwear bottoms (many go topless, which is perfectly normal in the single-gender setting). Men wear swim shorts or underwear. In luxury spas, robes and disposable underwear are provided. Bring flip-flops for wet floors. No special clothing needed, but bring a change of comfortable clothes for afterward.

Essentials: Flip-flops, Underwear or swimwear, Change of clothes, Hair tie for long hair

Desert Camping & Camel Trekking

Full coverage is practical, not just cultural. The Saharan sun can burn exposed skin in minutes, and sand stings in the wind. Wear loose long-sleeve shirts, full-length trousers, and closed-toe shoes you do not mind getting sandy. Your camp will provide a cheche (desert turban) which protects your face and neck.

Essentials: Long sleeves and trousers, Cheche or scarf, Closed shoes, Warm layer for night

Beach & Swimming

Tourist beaches in Agadir, Essaouira, and Taghazout are relaxed about swimwear. Bikinis and swim trunks are standard. On more local beaches away from tourist areas, more conservative swimwear is respectful. Always cover up with a sarong, dress, or t-shirt and shorts when leaving the sand.

Essentials: Swimwear, Cover-up or sarong, Waterproof sandals, Sun hat and sunscreen

Hiking & Trekking

Proper hiking gear is important for the Atlas Mountains and gorge trails. Ankle-supporting hiking boots, moisture-wicking base layers, and a waterproof outer shell are essential. Mountain villages are conservative, so avoid short shorts. Convertible trousers (zip-off legs) are ideal for adjusting to temperature changes.

Essentials: Hiking boots, Moisture-wicking layers, Rain jacket, Convertible trousers

Restaurants & Dining Out

Casual dining in Morocco has no strict dress code. Smart casual is appreciated at upscale restaurants in Marrakech, Casablanca, and Rabat. Men can wear a collared shirt and chinos. Women can wear dresses or nice separates. For rooftop restaurants and riads, clean and neat is sufficient. No formal attire is ever required.

Essentials: Smart casual outfit, Clean shoes (not hiking boots), Light layer for rooftop evenings, One nicer outfit for upscale dining

Nightlife & Bars

Nightlife exists primarily in Casablanca, Marrakech, and Agadir. Club dress codes are similar to European standards: smart casual to dressy. Men may need closed-toe shoes (no sandals) for clubs. Women can wear dresses and heels. Marrakech nightlife venues like Theatro and Pacha have a fashionable crowd.

Essentials: Smart outfit or cocktail wear, Closed-toe shoes for men, Jacket for cool nights, Cab fare (do not walk alone late at night)

What NOT to Wear in Morocco

Common mistakes that cost you comfort, respect or safety.

  1. Very short skirts or hot pants in medinas

    Traditional medina neighborhoods are conservative. Short clothing draws unwanted attention and is disrespectful to local culture. Save short skirts for beach towns or nightlife.

  2. Low-cut or revealing tops in traditional areas

    Cleavage-baring tops are inappropriate in medinas, rural areas, and mosques. A modest neckline paired with loose-fitting fabric is comfortable and respectful.

  3. Going shirtless (men) outside the beach

    While common on tourist beaches, going shirtless in medinas, souks, or towns is considered disrespectful. Always put a shirt on when leaving the beach area.

  4. High heels on medina streets

    Medina streets are uneven cobblestone with open drains, steps, and donkey traffic. High heels are impractical and potentially dangerous. Save them for upscale restaurants with smooth floors.

  5. Brand new white clothing in the medina

    The medina is dusty, narrow, and busy. Donkeys, motorbikes, and food stalls line the paths. White clothing will get dirty in under an hour. Save it for the hotel or beach.

  6. Culturally insensitive graphic t-shirts

    T-shirts with offensive imagery, profanity, or religious mockery are disrespectful. Morocco is a Muslim country, and provocative clothing can cause genuine offense.

  7. Only packing sandals and flip-flops

    Medina streets demand closed-toe shoes. Desert sand gets into open shoes. Mountain trails require boots. Flip-flops are for the beach and hammam only. Always bring proper walking shoes.

  8. Excessive jewelry in the medina

    Flashy expensive jewelry can make you a target for pickpockets in crowded souks. Keep accessories simple and leave valuables at the hotel.

Capsule Wardrobe Packing Lists

Two capsule wardrobes for a 10-14 day trip across several Moroccan climates.

Choose neutral colors (beige, navy, olive, white, black) so all pieces mix and match. You can always buy extra items in Moroccan souks.

Women's Capsule Wardrobe

ItemQtyNote
Lightweight trousers or linen pants2Neutral colors (beige, olive, navy)
Midi or maxi skirt1Versatile print or solid that works day to night
Maxi dress1Loose-fitting, breathable, doubles as evening wear
Loose-fitting t-shirts or blouses4Mix of short and long sleeve
Light cardigan or kimono1For covering shoulders and cool evenings
Light jacket (denim or cotton)1Packable, for layering
Warm sweater or fleece1Essential for mountains and winter visits
Swimwear1One-piece or bikini depending on comfort level
Versatile scarf2One lightweight, one warmer. Endless uses in Morocco
Comfortable walking shoes1Closed-toe, good grip, broken in before trip
Sandals1Sturdy flat sandals for casual days
Flip-flops1For hammam, beach, and hotel
Underwear7Quick-dry fabric ideal for hand washing
Sleepwear1Riads can be chilly at night
Sun hat1Wide-brimmed for UV protection
Sunglasses1UV-protective, the Moroccan sun is strong

Men's Capsule Wardrobe

ItemQtyNote
Lightweight trousers or chinos2Neutral colors (khaki, navy, olive)
Shorts (knee-length)1For beach towns and casual settings only
T-shirts4Breathable cotton or merino, neutral tones
Collared shirt or linen button-up2For restaurants and smart casual occasions
Light jacket or hoodie1For cool evenings and mountain excursions
Warm layer (fleece or sweater)1Essential for mountains and winter
Swimwear1Board shorts or swim trunks
Comfortable walking shoes1Sturdy, good grip for medina streets
Sandals or casual shoes1Leather sandals or smart trainers
Flip-flops1For hammam and beach
Underwear7Quick-dry fabric for easy hand washing
Socks4Including one warm pair for mountains
Cap or sun hat1Protection from intense sun
Sunglasses1Essential year-round
Scarf or bandana1Useful for desert, dust, and sun protection

Shopping for Clothes in Morocco

Where to buy local clothes that suit the climate and the dress code. All prices are starting prices. Haggle respectfully: start at about 40-50% of the asking price and negotiate from there.

Kaftan or Djellaba

The classic Moroccan garment. Kaftans are elegant, often embroidered robes worn by women for special occasions. Djellabas are hooded robes worn by both men and women daily. One keeps you cool and covered, and it travels home as a souvenir.

Where
Any medina souk, especially Fes and Marrakech
Price
From 150 MAD for basic, from 500 MAD for embroidered

Babouche Slippers

Traditional leather slippers found everywhere in Morocco. Soft, flat and comfortable, in many colors, worn by men and women. Good inside riads and as a light travel shoe.

Where
Leather souks in Fes, Marrakech, and Essaouira
Price
From 50 MAD for basic leather, from 200 MAD for embroidered

Cheche (Desert Scarf)

A long cotton or linen scarf traditionally worn as a turban by Saharan nomads. Use it as sun protection, a head wrap, a shawl, a pillow, or a dust mask. Available in every color, most famously in Tuareg blue.

Where
Desert towns, any souk, and desert camps
Price
From 30 MAD for cotton, from 80 MAD for quality linen

Linen Shirts & Tunics

Loose linen and cotton tunics and shirts suit the Moroccan climate. Many shops in tourist areas sell Western-style linen clothing specifically designed for travelers.

Where
Tourist shops in medinas and modern boutiques in the Ville Nouvelle
Price
From 100 MAD for cotton, from 250 MAD for quality linen

Harem Pants

Loose, flowing trousers that are both comfortable and modest. Light to wear and to pack, in prints or plain colors. Good for the medina and desert trips.

Where
Souk stalls throughout Morocco, especially tourist medinas
Price
From 60 MAD for basic cotton, from 150 MAD for quality fabric

Leather Belt & Accessories

Fes is known for its leather. Handcrafted leather belts, bags, wallets, and sandals are excellent quality and far cheaper than European equivalents. The tanneries in Fes produce some of the finest leather in North Africa.

Where
Leather souks in Fes (near the tanneries), Marrakech, Essaouira
Price
From 50 MAD for belts, from 200 MAD for bags

Practical Clothing Tips

The Scarf Is Your Best Friend

A scarf is the most useful item you can pack for Morocco. Use it as a head covering for mosque visits, a shawl for cool evenings, sun protection in the desert, a privacy screen on overnight buses, a picnic blanket or an emergency beach towel. Souks sell them from 30 MAD.

Natural Fabrics Are Essential

Cotton, linen, and merino wool breathe far better than polyester and synthetics. In Moroccan heat, synthetic fabrics trap sweat and become uncomfortable within minutes. In summer, wear linen: it dries quickly, breathes well and softens with every wash.

Break In Your Shoes Before You Go

You will walk more in Morocco than you expect. Medina exploration alone can mean 15,000+ steps per day on uneven surfaces. Wear your travel shoes for at least two weeks before your trip, and pack moleskin blister pads.

Layer, Layer, Layer

Morocco can have a 20-degree temperature swing between midday and midnight, especially in spring and fall. A breathable base layer, a light mid-layer (cardigan, flannel, or light fleece), and a packable outer layer cover most days.

Laundry Is Easy and Cheap

Most riads and hotels offer laundry service from 30 MAD per kg. There are also laundromats in major cities. This means you can pack lighter and wash as you go. Quick-dry fabrics are ideal for hand washing in your room. Most accommodations have clotheslines or balconies.

Neutral Colors Are Versatile

Packing in a neutral palette (navy, olive, beige, white, black) means everything mixes and matches. You can create many outfits from few pieces. Add color through a Moroccan scarf or locally bought accessories. Dark bottoms hide medina dust better than light ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to cover my head in Morocco?

No. Morocco does not require head coverings for visitors or non-Muslim women. While some Moroccan women wear hijab, it is a personal choice. You should, however, carry a lightweight scarf for mosque visits (like Hassan II in Casablanca) and conservative rural areas where covering your hair is a sign of respect.

Can I wear shorts in Morocco?

It depends on the location. In beach towns like Essaouira and Agadir, shorts are perfectly acceptable for everyone. In Marrakech and Fes medinas, knee-length shorts are tolerated for men but not ideal. Women should avoid very short shorts in traditional areas. In rural and conservative areas, both men and women should choose longer clothing. When in doubt, opt for lightweight trousers.

What should I wear to visit a mosque in Morocco?

Most mosques in Morocco are closed to non-Muslims. The major exception is Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, which offers guided tours. For mosque visits, women should cover their hair with a scarf, wear long sleeves, and cover legs fully. Men should wear long trousers and a sleeved shirt. Shoes are removed at the entrance, so bring socks and wear shoes that are easy to slip off.

Is Morocco very conservative about clothing?

Morocco is moderate compared to many Muslim-majority countries. Modern cities like Casablanca and Rabat are cosmopolitan, and you will see Moroccans in everything from traditional djellabas to Western fashion. However, traditional medinas, rural areas, and the south are more conservative. The general rule is: dress modestly in traditional areas, and wear what you like in modern city districts and beaches.

Can I buy clothes in Morocco instead of packing everything?

Absolutely. Morocco is one of the best countries in the world for shopping for clothes. You can buy beautiful kaftans from 150 MAD, linen shirts from 100 MAD, harem pants from 60 MAD, leather babouche slippers from 50 MAD, and desert scarves from 30 MAD in any souk. Buying locally is part of the experience and helps you dress appropriately while supporting local artisans.

What shoes should I bring to Morocco?

Comfortable walking shoes are the most important thing. Medina streets are uneven cobblestone with steps, slopes, and occasional wet patches, so flat closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals with good grip work best. Bring hiking boots if visiting the Atlas Mountains, flip-flops for hammams and beaches, and one pair of dressier shoes for restaurants. Avoid high heels on medina streets entirely.

What do Moroccan women actually wear?

Moroccan women wear everything from traditional djellabas and kaftans to jeans, dresses, and modern Western fashion. In cities like Casablanca, you will see the full spectrum of styles. In rural areas, traditional dress is more common. Young Moroccan women often blend Moroccan and Western styles creatively. There is no single dress code for Moroccan women, and the idea that all Moroccan women dress conservatively is a misconception.

Continue Exploring Morocco